Eli Lilly and Company (LLY)

Return on total capital

Dec 31, 2024 Dec 31, 2023 Dec 31, 2022 Dec 31, 2021 Dec 31, 2020
Earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) US$ in thousands 3,024,300 7,040,500 7,138,000 6,495,300 7,589,500
Long-term debt US$ in thousands 28,527,100 18,320,800 14,737,500 15,346,400 16,586,600
Total stockholders’ equity US$ in thousands 14,192,100 10,771,900 10,649,800 8,979,200 5,641,600
Return on total capital 7.08% 24.20% 28.12% 26.70% 34.14%

December 31, 2024 calculation

Return on total capital = EBIT ÷ (Long-term debt + Total stockholders’ equity)
= $3,024,300K ÷ ($28,527,100K + $14,192,100K)
= 7.08%

Eli Lilly and Company's return on total capital has exhibited fluctuations over the past five years. Starting at a high point of 34.14% on December 31, 2020, the return on total capital decreased to 26.70% by December 31, 2021. However, there was a slight improvement to 28.12% by December 31, 2022. The trend reversed in the subsequent years, with the return on total capital declining to 24.20% by December 31, 2023, and significantly dropping to 7.08% by December 31, 2024.

The decrease in return on total capital from 2022 to 2024 raises concerns about the company's efficiency in generating returns from its total capital employed. This declining trend may indicate challenges in effectively utilizing the company's capital to generate profits. Further analysis and investigation into the factors contributing to this decline are recommended to identify areas for improvement and enhancing overall financial performance.